'Absolutely no discipline...' - India's Head Coach Rahul Dravid opens up about Ishan Kishan ahead of first T20I against Afghanistan

Ishan Kishan may find a silver lining in his cricket career, given the latest rumours about his absence. Earlier, reports indicated that the Indian team management is considering freeing KL Rahul from wicket-keeping duties in Test matches. This decision opens the door for Kishan to potentially secure a place in the playing XI for the upcoming five-match series against England, set to commence on January 25. However, his selection depends on proving his fitness in a Ranji Trophy match.

Despite being available for selection in the Afghanistan T20Is, Kishan was purportedly left out due to possible mistrust between him and the team management. India's head coach, Rahul Dravid has explicitly stated that no disciplinary action has been initiated against Ishan Kishan. While the left-handed player was not considered for the Afghanistan T20Is due to his unavailability, the former India skipper also emphasized that Kishan would be in contention as soon as he makes himself available. However, the condition is that he must demonstrate his fitness in a first-class match.

"Absolutely no disciplinary issue. Ishan Kishan was not available for selection. Ishan requested for a break, which we agreed in South Africa. We supported it. He has not yet made himself available. When he is available, he will play domestic cricket and make himself available for selection," Dravid said as per reported by Hindustan Times.

Team management were not happy with Ishan after being spotted partying

Previously, there were reports suggesting discontent within the Indian team management when Kishan was observed partying in Dubai while on leave granted for 'mental fatigue.' Kishan has been seeking a break from national duties since the ODI World Cup the previous year. Despite not being a constant presence in the playing XI over the last 13 months, the skilled wicketkeeper-batter has consistently capitalized on the opportunities whenever he has been given a chance in all three formats.

Under Rahul Dravid's leadership, Team India has adopted a policy requiring players to prove their fitness in domestic matches after missing games due to injury or other reasons. This rule, though not strictly followed last year, is now in effect. Ishan Kishan is at a crucial juncture as he seeks to become the primary wicketkeeper for the upcoming England series. While there are some sources that suggest he might play for Jharkhand in a Ranji Trophy match from January 19, another claims he may skip the Ranji Trophy, and if not selected for England, join the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024.